The Broadcast That Terrified the Nation

What was the immediate public reaction to the radio broadcast on October 31st, 1938, claiming an alien invasion?

• Widespread celebration and curiosity.

• Calm and orderly evacuation of cities.

• Mass panic, angry mobs, and reports of suicides.

• Skepticism and immediate debunking by authorities.

How did George Orson Welles secure his first acting job at the Gate Theatre in Dublin?

• He was formally invited after a successful audition.

• He claimed to be a Broadway star, despite being only 16.

• He submitted a compelling resume and portfolio.

• He inherited the position from a family member.

What technique did Orson Welles use at the beginning of "The War of the Worlds" broadcast to enhance its realism?

• He used real-time interviews with eyewitnesses.

• He started with a slow orchestral segment and long pauses between news bulletins.

• He broadcasted from the actual invasion sites.

• He incorporated pre-recorded sounds of alien spacecraft.

How did some listeners initially react when they tuned into "The War of the Worlds" broadcast a few minutes late?

• They immediately called emergency services.

• They heard orchestral music and thought it was a typical performance.

• They realized it was a hoax and turned off their radios.

• They started preparing for an alien invasion.

What percentage of surveyed homes were listening to the "War of the Worlds" broadcast?

• Less than 2%

• Around 10%

• More than 50%

• Exactly 6%